Mike Manley All-Star

Mike Manley will join the ranks of the elite in his first ever MLL All-Star Game, presented by Moe’s Southwest Grill, this Saturday, July 13, at American Legion Memorial Stadium in Charlotte N.C.

"It is truly an honor to be selected among elite company. I am very excited to get the opportunity to represent the Rattlers organization. However, I wouldn't have been selected if it wasn't for the help of my teammates and coaches," Manley stated.

The Rochester long-pole is currently in his second season in the MLL, and is one of the toughest shut-down defenders. Manley describes his defensive style as, "Old school. I am not a very flashy defenseman that will throw a lot of checks. Instead I rely on being a smart defenseman. With that being said, I try to use my physicality as much as possible."

His athleticism, strength, and aggressive nature have allowed Manley to emerge as a real force around the crease. Stemming from Duke University, the defender was chosen as the third overall draft pick in 2012. Since arriving in Rochester, Manley has excelled on the field. In his rookie season, he collected 35 ground balls, the third most on Rochester's roster. This season he currently has 17 ground balls, as well as his first career point and goal.

The Penn Yan, N.Y. native is no novice in success, earning four consecutive high school Section V titles, followed by a 2010 NCAA National Championship. In 2008, Manley received the ACC Rookie of the Year award. In 2010 and 2012 he was elected to the USILA All-America third and second teams respectively. "I have taken everything I've learned along the way from my coaches, teammates, and family, and applied it to my game to the best of my ability," he said.

Manley will be joined by teammates Ned Crotty, Jordan MacIntosh, John Ranagan, and Matt Striebel in Saturday's All-Star Game presented by Moe's Southwest Grill. When asked to choose between sour cream and guacamole, Manley answered, "Both? I think they complement each other so well. But, if I had to pick one I would go with guacamole."

Visit the MajorLeagueLacrosse.com All-Star Game page to purchase your tickets to watch the MLL's best players go head to head. If you can't make the game then be sure to tune into ESPN2 at 7 p.m. (ET) for all the action.